1971 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
An early 1970s D-45 with Indian rosewood — the first years after the Brazilian rosewood transition. Full abalone inlay remains breathtaking. A significant step down in price from Brazilian examples.
Current Market Value
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
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Specifications
| Body Wood | Spruce (top), Indian Rosewood (back and sides) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Ebony |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Ebony belly bridge (with abalone inlay) |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite (gold) |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 280 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic — full abalone inlay treatment.
What Changed in 1971
Early Indian rosewood D-45 — the transition from Brazilian. The abalone ornamentation remains identical and spectacular. Indian rosewood brings a different tonal character but the visual impact is undiminished.
Collector's Notes
Early Indian rosewood D-45s (1970-1972) are the most collected of the Indian-era models. The abalone work is identical to Brazilian-era reissues. Verify the rosewood species if the price reflects Brazilian.
How to Authenticate a 1971 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
Martin serial numbers are the most reliable in the industry — verify the number stamped on the neck block (visible through the soundhole) against Martin's published tables. For 1971, the number should fall within the documented range. Indian rosewood back and sides — verify correct grain and coloring. Non-scalloped X-bracing pattern for this era — verify through the soundhole. The D-45's distinctive abalone pearl bordering on top, back, sides, fingerboard, and headstock must all be original. Verify all inlay and appointments match factory specifications. Check for neck resets, top cracks (especially near soundhole and bridge), and bridge plate condition. Tuners should be Grover Sta-Tite (gold). Finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer with age-appropriate wear. Original case adds value.